In a strategic move, Bengaluru FC (BFC) has appointed Spanish tactician Gerard Zaragoza as the new Head Coach until the culmination of the 2024-25 season. The decision follows the amicable departure of Englishman Simon Grayson after the team’s recent 4-0 loss to Mumbai City FC.
Gerard Zaragoza , 41, rejoins Bengaluru FC, having previously served as the Assistant Coach during the triumphant 2018-19 Indian Super League (ISL) season. The Spanish coach, whose coaching journey includes stints in various Asian leagues, is expected to arrive in Bengaluru after completing VISA formalities.
Zaragoza’s coaching experience spans diverse locations, including Greece and the UAE Pro League, where he earned accolades as Manager of the Week. Sebastian Vega, a key member of Zaragoza’s backroom staff, has been appointed as the Assistant Coach.
Gerard Zaragoza to coach Bengaluru FC
Gerard Zaragoza, passionate about Bengaluru FC, acknowledged the challenges but expressed eagerness to contribute to the club’s resurgence. A former youth footballer and coach of Catalonia U14s and U16s, Zaragoza’s coaching journey took him to Erovnuli Liga 2 side Locomotive Tbilisi and Bengaluru FC’s title-winning season in 2018-19.
Club owner and Director, Parth Jindal, expressed confidence in Zaragoza’s return, emphasizing the coach’s tactical expertise and positive influence on young players. Jindal highlighted the aspiration to revive the club’s distinctive style under Zaragoza’s guidance, extending well from the youth academy to the first team.
Director of Football, Darren Caldeira, emphasized the thoughtful decision to bring Zaragoza back, citing his understanding of the club’s ethos and structured approach. The technical consultant, Albert Roca, lauded Zaragoza’s return, anticipating a positive impact on the team.
With Gerard Zaragoza’s wealth of experience, including a quarterfinal finish in the AFC Champions League with Al-Ahli Dubai FC, Bengaluru FC aims for a successful chapter under their returning Head Coach. The reunion is expected to usher in a positive change in the dressing room and propel the club back to its pinnacle.
